The American cocker spaniel is one of the most popular spaniels. It is the smallest breed in the American Kennel Club Sporting Group. Their compact size, lively personalities, and sweet expression endear them to dog lovers worldwide.
This rare medium-sized breed originated from the Great Lakes region of the United States during the 19th century from several other breeds, including the Irish and English water spaniels.
Another spaniel native to the United States, the Boykin is the official dog of South Carolina. Its athletic physique and webbed-toes were developed to retrieve fowl from swamps, lakes, and rivers. If you live near a lake or the ocean, this water-loving breed could be a good match.
Despite only being recognized officially by the AKC in 1995, the Cavalier King Charles has a long and noble heritage. They're the most popular spaniel in the United States today. Their popularity can be attributed to their typically affectionate, sociable, happy-go-lucky, and eager-to-please personality.
One of the biggest spaniels on our list, the Clumber is calmer than many of their other working relatives. Clumbers tend to be mellow around the home. Although they can be determined once they get a scent, they aren't as fast or active as cockers or springers.
Compact, enthusiastic, and agile, cocker spaniels were once prized as woodcock hunting companions, likely the source of the breed's name. Nowadays, English cockers are a popular, active companion breed.
English springers are another famous spaniel. One of the busiest, driven, and active spaniels, they aren't suited to a sedentary household. They thrive when given the opportunity to use their fantastic scenting abilities, and they love having a job to do.
You might be surprised to learn that the papillon has spaniel ancestry. This toy breed used to have dropped ears before it was selectively bred to have ears that form the upright butterfly-like shape they have now. Papillons are also known as continental toy spaniels.
The Welsh springer spaniel is closely related to its English counterpart, although a little smaller. They only have red and white markings. The Welshie is affectionate, active, and happy. They're also known for being a bit more laid back around the home and a little less busy outdoors.
The English toy spaniel is known for its sunny personality and cuddly nature. It looks a lot like the Cavalier King Charles spaniel, and like that breed, it is a beautiful companion dog.
Closely related to cocker and springer spaniels, field spaniels hunted game in England's vast fields. They have abundant energy and are playful, loyal, and intelligent. They bond tightly with their family and make an excellent fit for an active household.